Calling all airline geeks! This news is for you!
In 1962, TWA opened a stunning flight center at JFK designed by renowned architect Eero Saarinen. It was the very definition of Mid-Century. It was clad in TWA’s signature red and white and stood as the operational crown jewel of what was then the nation’s oldest commercial airline. In 1994, the building was designated as a Historic Landmark.
The terminal went dormant in October 2001 when TWA was absorbed into American Airlines, bringing to an end one of the most storied airlines in aviation history. Eventually, JetBlue opened operations in a new terminal that sits behind the original TWA building in 2008. But for 15 years, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey debated what to do with the Sarrinen terminal.
In 2016, plans were announced to build a hotel inspired by the terminal and using the building as a central lobbying and hub for events space. Thus, the TWA Hotel was born. They’re evening situating an old Constellation Class “Super Connie” in between the sleeping room towers to serve as a cocktail lounge. On May 15, 2019, it opens to the public…and Q1067 is going to be there for opening night!
Yes, we’re huge airline nerds, and even huger nerds for TWA. And we can’t wait to share the experience with you. Until then, check out just a few photos of the terminal and the hotel conversion below.
